How to become a policy analyst

Analyse policies and their effects to direct government and organisation programs and operations.

What does policy analyst do?

Policy analysts analyse policies and their effects to direct government and organisation programs and operations. They offer strategic policy and planning advice for organisations and should have excellent analytical abilities and an understanding of organisational policies and objectives.

Duties and tasks

  • Analyse anticipated impact and financial circumstances, effect on other programs and political and administrative achievability of policies.
  • Evaluate existing policies and legislation to ascertain inconsistencies and out-dated requirements.
  • Implement and oversee research and analysis projects to evaluate socio-economic and commercial trends with organisations expectations of programs and services.
  • Prepare analyses of policy options for organisations as well as recommendations for policy development and modifications.
  • Serve as a reference and expert in the field on policy, program and legislative matters, working with government officials and stakeholders.
  • Work with other Managers and Board Members to outline goals and objectives and develop strategic policies to meet those objectives.

Related jobs

  • Education officer
  • Foreign affairs and trade officer
  • Parliamentarian
  • Policy advisor
  • Policy and planning manager
  • Project and program administrator
  • Research officer
  • Research and development manager
  • Resource economist
  • University lecturer
Queensland University of Technology

Make meaningful change in violence prevention

Become a trauma-informed practitioner in social work, policy, and policing. You’ll build a practical, skills-based approach to address gendered violence in all its forms. Strengthen prevention efforts and improve responses across communities and justice systems.

Study method
100% online
Duration
1 year full time or part time equivalent
Queensland University of Technology

Learn how government works and start shaping public policy

Explore the policy cycle – including drafting submissions, analysing data and evaluating outcomes. Learn to navigate Australia’s political and governance systems. Gain the skills and confidence to well-informed policy recommendations.

Study method
100% online
Duration
6 months full time or part time equivalent
Queensland University of Technology

Master of Justice

PostgraduateQUT-JUS-MAS

Make real impact on the problems of today

Gain deep insight into the Australian justice system. Build expertise, including research and investigation, to design solutions to real-world issues. Prepare to effect strategic responses that strengthen communities and public institutions.

Study method
100% online
Duration
Approx. 1.5 years full time or part time equivalent
Macquarie University

Master of Strategy and Security

PostgraduateMAQ-STS-MAS

Prepare to lead in high-stakes security environments

Specialise in advanced defence strategy, cyber intelligence, or counter-terrorism. Learn from experts in government and industry. Deep dive into threat assessment. Craft innovative policy solutions. Get ready to anticipate and respond to complex global risks.

Study method
100% online
Duration
1 year full time or part time equivalent
Explore public policy courses
La Trobe University

Drugs, Governance and Modern Society

UndergraduateLTU-LST2DRU

Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 2 Nov 2026
La Trobe University
Study method
100% online
Start dates
Starts 2 Nov 2026
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